Nutrient Pollution: United States Environmental Protection Agency

“Nutrient pollution is one of America’s most widespread, costly and challenging environmental problems, and is caused by excess nitrogen and phosphorus in the air and water.

Nitrogen and phosphorus are nutrients that are natural parts of aquatic ecosystems… But when too much nitrogen and phosphorus enter the environment – usually from a wide range of human activities – the air and water can become polluted…

Nutrient pollution in ground water – which millions of people in the United States use as their drinking water source – can be harmful, even at low levels.”

“The majority of pollutants going into the ocean come from activities on land. Natural processes and human activities along the coastlines and far inland affect the health of our ocean.

Nutrients and algal bloomsSometimes it is not the type of material, but its concentration that determines if it is a pollutant. For example, nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus are essential elements for plant growth. However, if they are overabundant in a body of water, they can stimulate an overgrowth of algae called an algal bloom…

Marine debris is another persistent pollution problem in our ocean. Marine debris injures and kills marine life, interferes with navigation safety, and poses a threat to human health. Our oceans and waterways are polluted with a wide variety of marine debris ranging from soda cans and plastic bags to derelict fishing gear and abandoned vessels…

Impact of seafood
Pollution can have an adverse affect on the food that we eat. Heavy metals and other contaminants can accumulate in seafood and make it harmful to eat…”

Office of Water, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Responsible for implementing the Clean Water Act and Safe Drinking Water Act.

“The Office of Water (OW) ensures drinking water is safe, and restores and maintains oceans, watersheds, and their aquatic ecosystems to protect human health, support economic and recreational activities, and provide healthy habitat for fish, plants and wildlife.”